May 5, 2026
On May 4, 2026, Governor Maura Healey filed legislation to strengthen public safety and regulate micromobility devices, like e-bikes, scooters and mopeds. An Act to enhance the safe use of micromobility devices, otherwise known as the “Ride Safe Act,” builds on recommendations from the Special Commission on Micromobility created under Governor Healey’s Mass Leads Act and responds directly to growing safety concerns on Massachusetts roads, sidewalks, and bike lanes, positioning Massachusetts as a national leader in regulating emerging transportation technologies.
Scott Mullen, A Better City Transportation Demand Management Director, served on the special commission and offered the following perspective in the Governor's press release: "Thank you to Governor Healey's vision and leadership in filing this important bill, which is a critical first step toward creating safer streets for all. This bill will implement some of the priority recommendations of the Special Commission on Micromobility Report, which offers a clear roadmap to harness micromobility, and the significant benefits of reduced congestion and cleaner air that come with it, as we enter a growth phase and scale up in a meaningful way."
The Governor’s legislation aims to create a consistent, statewide safety framework focused on reducing crashes, protecting vulnerable road users, and giving law enforcement clear authority to act. It introduces a new system that regulates devices based on speed rather than device type, helping ensure rules keep pace with rapidly evolving technology, while addressing the real safety risks that come with higher-speed devices.
View the press release here and bill language here. You can also watch A Better City's March Special Commission on Micromobility Report virtual briefing here.
We look forward to engaging with legislators in the coming weeks as they consider this proposal. Please reach out to Scott Mullen if you have any questions or feedback!